The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

The long Easter/Sham El Nessim weekend is just around the corner and while many have already planned their short getaways to the Red Sea, Sinai and other coasts across Egypt, others aren't so lucky and will be stuck in the capital.

But it's not all doom and gloom and there’s no need to envy those on their way to get a tan and have their share of beachside fun, because Cairo always has something to offer. Here are some of the things you can do in the capital to make your stay at least a little bit more interesting…

1. Escape rooms

Escape Rooms gained massive popularity and make a fun alternative outing during Easter. The concept is simple; a group of people are locked into a room where solving the clues and riddles scattered in the room within 60 minutes is the only way to escape. Escape rooms are all over Cairo, for more about their location and prices, check out our article here.  

2. The Circus

A travelling circus troupe rated the third in the world, Italy’s Bellucci Circus – located next to Maadi City Center — promises exhilarating fun with its juggling, clowning, dancing, acrobat and aerialist performances. Don’t miss Bellucci Circus’ exciting stunts this Easter. For more information on how to reserve, check out their page right here.  

3. Parties and Nightlife

Cairo has an ever changing and evolving nightlife scene that is worth enjoying and discovering, with a never ending underground concerts and live DJ music. This Easter, catch some live acoustic music and DJ FAT SAM take to the stage his tracks at the Tap or visit Cairo Jazz Club as it welcomes prolific artist, Junior. Check out our events page for more.    

4. Paintball, Laser Tag and Bubble Football

If you want to spend your Easter shooting your friends with paintballs or laser guns, or wearing a giant bubble while playing football, then spending the holiday at fun parks is exactly where you should be.  This Easter, have some memorable laughs with your friends or family playing paintballing at Adrenalin or doing some serious laser tag business at Battlefield Egypt.

5. Defy Gravity

A large space filled with trampolines is the closest we ever got to defying gravity. Recreational centers like Airzone and Gravity Code are taking Cairo by storm boasting games like trampoline basketball. Defy gravity this Easter and just experience how it feels like to literally jump for joy.     

6. Karaoke

Nothing says fun more than embarrassing yourself or your friends while showing off your vocal talents. When it comes to karaoke, the options are aplenty. Enjoy a karaoke night with your friends at Vintage on Friday at Cheers on Saturday, or at Overtime on Sham El Nessim.

7. Sandboarding

No snow? Sand it is. Even though it is quite tiring, sandboarding can be so much fun, especially when there is plenty of sandboarding in the desert trips loaded with fun activities, including safari, sandboarding, sand football, while lunch and Bedouin tea party is also on the menu. Sandboarding Packages start from 300LE. Check them out right here.

8. Picnic and Barbecue

Seize the Easter holidays and the great spring weather by planning an outdoorsy picnic or barbecue trip with your friends at El Azhar Park or Wadi Degla Protectorate. It’s a great and affordable change of pace and scenery.  

9. Explore Cairo

Make this Easter all about rediscovering Cairo and its plethora of hidden museums, cultural and historical landmarks. Get lost in Khan El Khalili, stand before the might of the Great Pyramids of Giza or have a spiritual walkabout at the Mosque of Mohamed Ali in the Citadel or the Hanging Church in Old Egypt.

10. Nile Boat Ride

If you really run out of options on where to spend your Easter, always remember that having the Nile has its perks. This Easter, plan a dish party with your friends and enjoy a felluca ride while listening to some great music.

Happy Easter!

(Photo vourtesy of Sandboarding Cairo Club on Facebook)